Lead Lab Technician

Responsibilities

• Receive, log, and label incoming samples, ensuring compliance with chain-of-custody procedures.
• Verify the integrity and storage conditions of samples upon arrival.
• Perform qualitative and quantitative testing for pathogens and indicator organisms.
• Assist in conducting shelf-life studies, challenge studies, and environmental monitoring analyses.
• Prepare, dilute, and plate samples using standard ISO, BAM, USDA-FSIS, and FDA methods.
• Record and verify lab data for accuracy before releasing client reports.
• Communicate findings to staff and assist with client inquiries.
• Follow laboratory safety protocols, including PPE use and biosafety level requirements.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace adhering to ISO quality management standards.
• Operate and maintain general laboratory equipment, performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Assist with proficiency testing and participate in internal training programs.
• Support special projects, including new product testing.

Requirements

• Proficiency in microbiological testing and aseptic techniques.
• Strong knowledge of qPCR and ELFA technologies.
• Experience with pipetting, titration, and sterile processing.
• Ability to adapt to workflow changes.
• Strong data entry skills with a focus on accuracy.

Essential Skills

• Basic microbiology testing experience on food.
• Understanding of microbiology skill sets.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

1-2 years of experience with a degree or 4-5 years without a degree.

Pay and Benefits

• The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $35.00/hr.
• Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.

About the Role

We are seeking a meticulous and skilled Lead Lab Technician to join our team. The role involves performing microbiological testing and analysis of food, beverage, and environmental samples using advanced technologies such as qPCR and ELFA. You will be responsible for maintaining data accuracy and ensuring compliance with safety protocols in a dynamic laboratory environment.

Work Environment

You will work in a small microbiology testing lab, focusing on generating data from samples rather than manufacturing. The work environment is laid-back with fluctuating workflow depending on client demands. The position involves a rotating shift schedule from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm, and Tuesday to Saturday, with an early finish on Saturdays.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Farmington, CT.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 31, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.